Fractal patterns are an intricate ubiquitous machinery behind nature’s order, allowing for many of its complex processes to occur. In nature, complexity and irregularity is actually governed by underlying pattern and order. For context, the 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design (2014) classified fractals as one of many analogues for nature’s propensity for ‘Complexity and Order’, as to indicate “rich sensory information that adheres to a spatial hierarchy similar to those encountered in nature”. Yet science and mathematics tell us there is so much more going on with fractals that they could stand alone as their own pattern or, perhaps more accurately, as a thread through nearly any biophilic experience.
The unique trademark of nature to make complexity comprehensible is underpinned by fractal patterns, which apply to virtually any domain of life. Within the built environment, fractal patterns may present opportunities to positively impact human perception, health, cognitive performance, emotions and stress through. Yet, designing with fractals can also come with implementation challenges.
This paper provides a high-level conceptual framework for thinking about designing with fractals, and for promoting restorative and satisfactory environments, with a focus on the indoor environmental quality. The paper includes primary scientific research on fractals, perception and health, metrics and terminology used to discuss fractals, and perspectives on design, technology and other factors than may influence the creation of fractal patterns for design projects.
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